This fall, in accordance with the Lake Tapps agreements, Cascade will begin to drop lake levels on Nov. 1. This fall and winter, unlike previous years, Cascade will maintain the lake at approximately elevation 538 feet through the holidays. Lowering of lake levels during the winter is necessary to ensure protection of dikes and the integrity of the lake. Cascade can maintain this higher than usual winter lake level because there are no dike repairs anticipated this season. However, if any issues arise that require attention and the lake must be drawn down further to address them, homeowners will be notified.

In 2009, the Lake Tapps Community Council and Cascade Water Alliance established long term agreements ensuring consistent, seasonal lake levels every year.

It is expected that the spring refill will begin as early as mid to late February with recreational lake levels (minimum elevation 541.5 feet) reached no later than April 15, 2013.

Homeowners are reminded that all boats or other items dependent on recreational lake levels be out of the water prior to Nov. 1.

Homeowners should also note that if they plan any new construction or repair or improvements to existing structures, they must first contact Cascade for a license as well as obtain any other applicable city, county, state or federal permits or approvals.

For more information on the lake levels visit www.cascadewater.org/lake_tapps_recreational_lake_levels andwww.laketappsnews.org. For additional information on Cascade’s Lake Tapps agreements visitwww.cascadewater.org/lake_tapps_agreements.